As a treat, a gift, or something to console during your mood swings or bad days, chocolate is that comfort food that solves everything, maybe even your skin issues. Yes, chocolate masks can help you attain that flawless skin you always wanted. Do not be surprised; it is true!
But how does chocolate help your skin? Is it safe to apply it to your face? In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about using chocolate on your face. Keep reading!
How Does Chocolate Benefit Your Skin?
Chocolates - especially dark chocolates - have immense health benefits. And they give you healthy-looking, glowing, and flawless skin. Here’s how.
According to BM Chemistry, dark chocolate contains catechins, polyphenols, and flavanols. These organic compounds make it a powerful antioxidant. Dark chocolates are made from cacao seed extracts that are considered super fruits in terms of antioxidant capacity. Their study shows that dark cocoa chocolates contain more flavanols, polyphenols, and other antioxidants than any other fruits.
It protects your skin from sun damage. The flavanols present in chocolate – according to a study in the National Library of Medicine - not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays but also improve the hydration levels of your skin and boost blood flow.
Dark chocolate helps you fight stress. Stress is one of the main causes of collagen breakdown and wrinkles. A study conducted by the American Chemical Society has found that cocoa could help reduce the levels of stress hormones.
Cacao extracts can also help manage the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. A study conducted by researchers from Seoul National University and the University of Massachusetts found that the polyphenols found in cacao extracts could decrease inflammation and soothe other allergic symptoms related to the skin condition.
FAQ about chocolate in skincare
Q: Is chocolate beneficial for brightening skin?
A: Yes. Chocolate contains flavonoids that nourish the skin from within and reduce the appearance of blemishes to leave your complexion glowing and radiant. Facial masks containing chocolate help protect your skin from free radical damage and eliminate dead cells for clearer looking skin.
Q: Does chocolate cause acne?
A: No. There is no clear scientific evidence stating that chocolate causes acne. But anecdotal evidence suggests that there might be a link between the two.
Q: Is a chocolate facial good for sensitive skin?
A: Yes. Chocolate has antioxidant and anti-aging properties that help keep your sensitive skin healthy looking and glowing.
Q: Can I use a chocolate face mask daily?
A: No. It is advisable to use a chocolate face mask once or twice a week to reap maximum benefits.
